Unable to offer indoor youth programming due to COVID-19, and with limited outdoor space at library sites, we sought to host literacy activities in welcoming, accessible green spaces. This led to further work with Parks & Rec, such as the library providing Wi-Fi access in a recreation center to boost internet access for remote students.

Providing service in unconventional locations allowed the library to engage potential new users. We developed an outdoor storytime kit with a portable sound system and directional yard signs, allowing easy setup in new locations. Staff also refined storytime approaches to make the most of the outdoor, distanced format. A portable pop-up storybook walk allowed us to rotate to new parks monthly. The library also deployed its circulating hotspots in a new way, reserving some for educational access in a recreation center.

Since launching outdoor storytimes this summer, the library has hosted 33 park storytimes, reaching over 1200 customers, and currently offers five outdoors storytimes each week. We have hosted four storybook walks in parks this year, and 100% of survey respondents said they would participate in another storybook walk if offered. The combination of literacy skill-building and a fun, outdoors environment has proven to be a hit with St. Louis residents.